“The easiest thing for me to do would be to stay here for as long as I can even if I do not expect to play so often, but that would go against everything that I believe in as a footballer and as a competitor.

“It is for that reason that I will be joining Lazio, which means my sadness at leaving Liverpool is accompanied by a real excitement that I will be representing one of Italy's great clubs.

Liverpool 2017/18 third kit: Reds release orange alternate strip

LIVERPOOL have released a vibrant new third kit ahead of the 2017/18 season.

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LFC

Liverpool's third kit for the 2017/18 season

“I have been blessed to live and work in this city, a place that I have come to realise is different to any other”

Liverpool legend Lucas Leiva

“Before I made my decision to take the opportunity to go to Italy, I discussed my situation with Jürgen Klopp and the way he handled it showed once again how respectful he is to his players.

“I am grateful to him and to all of the managers I worked under at Liverpool, especially the ones who showed faith in me when it would have been easy to do the opposite.

“My priority now is to look ahead to a new chapter in my career in the belief that I can contribute to Lazio in the same way that I hope I have helped Liverpool.

“I have been blessed to live and work in this city, a place that I have come to realise is different to any other, and while living here I have been married and blessed with two wonderful children so whatever happens now we will always take Liverpool with us everywhere we go.

“I have also been fortunate to play with so many world-class teammates and shared their devotion to do everything that we could to help the club be as good as it can be.”

Lucas made 24 Premier League appearances last season, helping the Reds get back into the Champions League.